Matilda

[məˈtɪldə]

Meaning

from the Germanic Mahthilt, "strength in battle", from maht "might" and hilt "battle"

Background Story

Matilda comes from the Germanic name Mahthilt, from the elements maht, "might, strength", and hilt, "battle". It was common in many branches of European royalty in the Middle Ages and was brought to England by the Normans, and it remained popular in England until the 15th century, usually in the vernacular form Maud. Both forms were revived by the 19th century, and the name appears in the Australian folk song Waltzing Matilda, written in 1895.